First used in 1935, the Chevrolet Suburban is the oldest surviving nameplate in the U.S. The first-generation model (1935-1936) was essentially a two-door eight-passenger station wagon mounted on truck frame. Power came from a 60-hp engine. The second-generation (1937-1940) model was available with two or four doors, and the third-generation (1941-1946) Suburban survived the World War II era as military transport vehicle. A four-speed automatic and new styling appeared during the fourth-generation (1947-1955).

A factory-installed four-wheel-drive system and Chevrolet’s new small-block V-8 were introduced during the fifth-generation (1955-1959) and was offered alongside the I-6 engine, which was dropped for the sixth-generation (1960-1966). The seventh-generation model (1967-1972) featured one door on the driver’s side and two doors on the passenger side and front disc brakes became available.

The eighth-generation Chevrolet Suburban (1973-1991) marked the beginning of the model’s modern styling direction and standard four doors. Electronic fuel injection also replaced carburetors, and a refined four-speed automatic improved efficiency. A big block 7.5-liter V-8 or a 6.2-liter Detroit Diesel V-8 was also available. The ninth-generation model (1992-1999) was the most modern yet and the diesel grew to 6.5 liters, while the big block was now only available on the new 2500 three-quarter ton model. In 1996, new Vortec gas engines with muti-port injection replaced the throttle-body injection (TBI). A new all-wheel-drive system joined the rear- and four-wheel-drive options.

Along with more refined styling and a new chassis, the 10th-generation Chevrolet Suburban (2000-2006) featured the automaker’s new V-8 engines including a 5.3-liter for half-ton and a 6.0-liter for three-quarter-ton models. Four-wheel disc brakes and a load-leveling suspension were available. The 11th-generation (2007-2014) model added a more aerodynamic front end with new body-color bumpers. Inside, the Suburban was even more luxurious. A 75th Anniversary model was available in 2010, and 2013 was the last year for the 2500 model.

The Latest Generation

Now in its 12th generation (2015-present), the 5.3-liter V-8 is rated at 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, and in Motor Trend testing, propelled a 5952-pound Suburban tester to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds.

“On the road the big Chevrolet feels absolutely trucklike,” we said in our First Test. “Its size is always at the forefront, with every one of those 5952 pounds reminding you the laws of physics aren’t on your side. On the figure-eight it turns in reasonably well. While the brakes aren’t necessarily confidence-inspiring on the road, they will haul the Suburban down from 60 mph to 0 in 126 feet.”

Why You’d Consider One

You need to carry up to eight passengers in three rows as well as all their gear. If 39.3 cu.-ft. behind the third-row isn’t enough, the SUV can tow up to an 8,000-pound trailer. There is up 121.1 cu.-ft of cargo space behind the front seats. Excluding its corporate cousins (GMC Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade ESV), the Chevrolet Suburban’s only real competitor is the Ford Expedition EL and Lincoln Navigator L.

Why You’d Look Elsewhere

A fully loaded Suburban can easily surpass $70,000. For those who don’t need as much cargo space or towing capability, the Chevrolet Traverse crossover may be the better deal.